Everyone Can Give a Great Foot Massage
Why Give a Foot Massage?
At the end of a long day, little feels better than a wonderful foot rub. It’s a positive experience for the body, mind and spirit. Touch doesn’t just bring two people into physical contact; it can help you connect more deeply to someone you love. Massage can alleviate difficult emotions including anxiety and depression, providing relaxation and stress relief and improving sleep. Blood flow also improves after massage, which is especially beneficial for people with diabetes and circulatory ailments.
How to Give a Foot Massage
- Set the scene. Turn on a classical radio station or look for a spa music channel on the internet. Trade the lights for some scented candles. Invite your loved one to sit in a comfortable spot.
- Start with a dime-sized dollop of massage oil or lotion, easily purchased at any drug store. Don’t use too much. You can always add more.
- Rub the lotion into the skin and nails of the entire foot.
- Pull the toes apart and interlace your fingers between them. Wiggle them back and forth, toward the sole and the top of the foot. Gently tug each one away from the foot.
- Massage the entire foot, using both hands. Be sure to cover the toes, arch and heel. Ask if the pressure is too light or too hard. See how your partner reacts if you use your thumbs, your fingers, and your knuckles. Massage each foot one at a time and together.
- Keep your loved one safe by covering the feet with socks when you’ve finished – they can be slippery!
Are you or someone you love experiencing pain in the foot or ankle? Dr. James M. McKee brings years of experience to the diagnosis and treatment of your discomfort. Call the friendly staff of Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. at 410-224-4448 or click here to reach us online. We can make an appointment in our convenient Annapolis office and help you start feeling better right away.